At the New Hampshire Teachers of Mathematics 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner, Nashua High School South teacher Lisa Gingras, middle, was given the Richard C. Evans Distinguished Mathematics Educator Award. To the right Richard Evans, to the left Christine Downing. (Courtesy)

Evans Math Award

Nashua High School South teacher takes the prize

By BENJAMIN C. KLEINUnion Leader Correspondent

NASHUA - Nashua High School South math teacher Lisa Gingras was named the Richard C. Evans Distinguished Mathematics Educator Award winner last week.

The award, given out by the New Hampshire Teachers of Mathematics, recognizes one math teacher a year for their passion and knowledge of the subject.

"It means a lot to me. Especially to be recognized by your peers is always a nice thing, in this profession there can be a lot of negativity, for someone to even think to nominate me was in itself an honor," Gingras said.

"I've gotten to get to know Lisa. She is a truly gifted teacher; she connects with her students and understands he subject," District Superintendent Mark Conrad said.

South Principal Keith Richard said the school has come to rely on Gingras, as she is not only a great teacher, but also great with data.

"She is fantastic, a true asset to our faculty. She not only does an excellent job in the math department, but she is also a true leader in the building. She is always willing to help out and go the extra mile. She takes ownership of her classes and wants to see students succeed," Richard said.

Passion about mathematics comes naturally to her, Gingras said, because, "statistics is relevant to students lives, no matter what they do they will use it later in life. I love to see student's 'ah ha' moments, as a teacher that is what you live for."

Conrad said that being recognized for her work is nothing new for Gingras, as she was also given a No Bell award by the Honor Society at South three years ago.

Conrad said the No Bell award is given by honor students to the teacher they deem most worthy, and that it alternates between the North and South high schools each year.